As the City of Palms Classic high school basketball tournament continues through Saturday at Florida SouthWestern State College, so do the haircuts—at least for the competing players.  

TwinCutZ, which has seven locations across Southwest Florida, has been cutting the hair of the participating players for free.  

Owner Sean Casey established the business in 2010 and has locations in Cape Coral, Coconut Point in Estero, North Naples and four in and around Fort Myers. He also plans to open a barbershop academy near Daniels Parkway and Metro Parkway in south Fort Myers in summer 2024.  

Mary Schaack, executive director of the basketball tournament, contacted Casey, asking if he would collaborate with the tournament in creating a players’ lounge, where the teams could congregate and relax after games.  

“I think it’s awesome,” Casey said. “I was excited to get the phone call. They heard about the brand. I jumped on the opportunity. I thought it was great. I wanted to provide more than just haircuts.” 

Casey said he partnered with some sponsors to allow him to take time away from his seven locations during the tournament. It’s been worth it, he said, because he’s been building great brand awareness. 

“We’ve established a strong brand within the past 14 years,” Casey said. “What’s most important for me is just the excitement and the passion and just doing it regardless. I love doing the hair.  

“The players work so hard, all day long, traveling from city to city. I wanted to provide that environment where they could sit back and relax and chill out.”  

Haircuts at TwinCutZ start at $30, but he said working at the tournament has given him some priceless memories. He even cut the hair of Kiyan Anthony, son of former NBA player Carmelo Anthony and a touted basketball prospect in his own right as one of the top-ranked junior players in the nation.  

“I think it’s more than just a business for me,” Casey said. “It’s the networking and the feel-good moment of just talking to these kids. Sharing what they have planned for the future and just sharing some barberly advice.”